Aquatronica Controllers are electronic control systems for advanced aquarium management. The heart of the systems are the Aquarium Controller Unit (ACQ110) and the Aquatronica Power Center (ACQ013). Packages include various modules such as a pH probe, pH interface, water level sensor, probe holder, USB PC kit and ethernet module.

With Apex Controllers you can fully automate your aquarium. Using these controllers and expansion modules you can control you LED lights, Vortech pumps, heaters & chiller and monitor your pH, ORP and salinity. You can even monitor your tank on your iPhone.

These replacement probes can be used with either the Milwaukee or American Marine monitors

Choosing a Multi-ControllerMulti-controllers control many aspects of your aquarium. They usually come with a controller base and a few basic components. You then add-on modules, cables and probes to meet your unique needs. Potentially your can control your lights, water level, pumps, calcium reactor, heater & chiller. You can monitor your pH, temperature, salinity, ORP and more. We carry the Aquatronica Aquarium Controllers and the Neptune Systems Apex AquaControllers.

Choosing to use a pH Test Kit, pH Pen, pH Tester, pH Meter, pH Monitor or pH Controller
Before looking at the choices for testing pH we’ll define pH. The abbreviation for pH stands for the potential (or power) of Hydrogen. The pH scale provides a measure from 0 to 14 of the acidity or alkalinity of a liquid. A measurement of 7 is neutral (pure water), higher than 7 is more basic (Clorox bleach) and less than 7 is more acidic (lemon juice).

Recommended pH for Freshwater, Saltwater and Other Types of AquariumsIf you have an aquarium it will have a pH value that must be maintained. Marine aquariums, both reef and fish-only, will require a pH of 8.2. Most freshwater aquariums and ponds require a pH to be acidic or close to neutral (7.0). However, with freshwater aquariums there are some very notable exceptions to this general rule. Fishes native to Lakes Victoria, Malawi and Tanganyika in east Africa can require a pH ranging from 7.2 to 9.5. Determining the exact pH required for your aquarium is beyond the scope of this article, and it is ultimately dependent on the exact requirements of your specific organisms.

Test KitsRegardless of what type of aquarium you have, the pH will need to be tested at least once a week. To test pH you can use either a test kit or an electric monitor. Test kits are often specific to the range of pH being tested.

High range kitsshould be used for marine aquariums and low range test kits should be used for freshwater aquariums.

The Lifegard 6-Way Test Strips is an affordable options for freshwater aquariums requiring a pH close to 7.0. Test kits are the least expensive option for those who only have one or two aquariums and do not have problems with the pH becoming unstable.

pH Testers, Pens, Monitors, Meters and Controllers
If you have multiple aquariums, or have equipment that may change your pH, then an electronic pH tester is right for you. The Milwaukee pH Pen is an affordable and easy to use. However, they can’t be used for the constant monitoring of pH. Also, the electrode (aka probe) will only last about a year, and since it is not replaceable in a pH Pen or pH Tester, the Pen or Tester will need to be replaced every year.

For greater accuracy and longevity you might consider a pH Meter or Monitor. Meters and monitors come with replaceable electrodes. Being able to replace the electrode will save you money in the long run. The Milwaukee MW101 pH Meter and the Milwaukee MW102 pH Meter are excellent choices for pH meters and they also have the added benefit of temperature compensation (the MW102 is automatic).

The next step up is the Milwaukee MC120 pH Monitor. This has all the functionality of the Milwaukee Meters, but with the added benefit of a 12V DC adapter which will allow for constant monitoring of your tank as opposed to the period testing done with the meters, pens and testers.

The Milwaukee MC122 pH Monitor/Controller is necessary if you use a CO2 system or calcium reactor. When set up and configured correctly the pH controller will stop CO2 from entering the reactor after it reaches a set pH.

No matter if you use a pen, tester, monitor or meter, the electrode will need to be calibrated for accuracy and kept in Storage Solution when not used (consult the product manual for details). Pens, testers and meters should be checked with a 7.01 solution before every use. If you get a reading other than 7.01 you should use either the 4.01 or 10.01 solution for accurate calibration. Monitors should be calibrated at least once a month, and some hobbyists calibrate them as often as once a week. If you’re unable to calibrate your pen or tester with calibration solution, the electrode has gone bad and the pen or tester should be replaced. For monitors or meters, in most instances, you need only replace the electrode. With Controllers accuracy is extremely important. Test your Controller weekly.